Hang a Ceiling Fan Properly and Safely

Make sure you purchase the right size fan for your room. A good home center will allow you to exchange if the size is not right.

Do a little stretching first and, even if you are in good shape, plan on having some sore muscles the next day. New Africa/Shutterstock

Dear James: I bought a ceiling fan two summers ago and am just getting around to installing it this winter. Can this be a one-person job? And do you have any tips?—Cheryl S.

Dear Cheryl: A ceiling fan is normally thought of for cooling, but it is also effective in the winter. Especially in a room with a fireplace, running the ceiling fan in reverse can keep the warm air evenly distributed throughout the room. Most have a bracket hook for one-person installation.